The Independent Communications Authority of SA (ICASA) is introducing a framework of numbering conventions that will result in the mandatory use of area codes when making local calls, as well as a change in SA`s international prefix.
The implementation of the framework provides an additional 20% number capacity nationwide, which translates into two million additional lines, says ICASA chairman Paris Mashile.
He says ICASA consulted with stakeholders to develop the plan, with Telkom, Vodacom, MTN, Cell C and the second national operator represented in the numbering policy committee.
ICASA will introduce a mandatory closed numbering plan on 16 January 2007, requiring fixed-line subscribers to dial a 10-digit number that includes an area code when making local and national calls.
As of 16 October, parallel running of both systems will be introduced, enabling fixed-line subscribers to dial local calls without using an area code. However, the parallel system ends on 16 January, when 10-digit dialling and the international prefix 00 become mandatory, Mashile says.
The changed format will not be a cultural shock to phone users, as many are already used to dialling 10-digit numbers when using mobile phones, he says.
International prefix
The international prefix will be changed from 09 to 00 from 16 January 2007. This change is in line with recommendations by the International Telecommunications Union, Mashile says.
In order to allow fixed-line subscribers to get used to the change, the parallel system, using the 09 prefix, will also be run during the three-month 16 October to 16 January period.
Telkom says it is ready to implement the changes to the dialling system. It says it will engage in an extensive public awareness campaign to ensure its customers are ready for the changes in the dialling system.
Lulu Letlape, Telkom`s group executive for corporate communications, says there are certain consumers who will have to make adjustments in their equipment.
The changes include the re-programming of POP numbers for dial-up Internet access, reprogramming of alarm systems connected to telephone numbers and the reprogramming of BlockCall Plus, ForwardCall, SpeedDial and UrgentCall, she says.
Telkom will not levy extra costs for using the 10-digit dialling system or switching to 00 as the international dialling prefix, she says.
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